Skillet Penne and Sausage Dinner
Try this Skillet Penne and Sausage Dinner recipe.
Try this Skillet Penne and Sausage Dinner recipe.
- salt & pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1/2 cup parmesan grated
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb hot or sweet italian turkey sausage casings removed
- 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes rinsed and finely chopped
- 8 ounces penne (2 1/2 cups)
- 1 (5 ounce) bag baby spinach (i only used half the b
- Carbohydrate 19.4969500021152 g
- Cholesterol 2425.51500010387 mg
- Fat 532.949000028051 g
- Fiber 3.3790000963211 g
- Protein 594.205150001554 g
- Saturated Fat 159.305193350795 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (3948g)
- Sodium 3237.17866669548 mg
- Sugar 16.1179499057941 g
- Trans Fat 42.8190433347798 g
- Calories 7383 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat olive oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the onion and ½ teaspoon salt and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the sausage and cook until lightly browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 15 seconds.
- Sprinkle the tomatoes and penne evenly over the sausage.
- Pour the broth and cream over the pasta.
- Cover and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach, a handful at a time, and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: Skillet Penne and Sausage
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework help, and the ever-present challenge of getting a healthy and delicious dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. That's why I've become a master of quick, easy, and satisfying one-pan meals. This Skillet Penne and Sausage is my absolute favorite – it's ready in under 30 minutes, requires minimal cleanup, and is always a crowd-pleaser with my family.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It all happens in one skillet, reducing the chaos of multiple pots and pans. I start by sautéing onions and garlic, building the foundation of flavor. Then, in goes the Italian sausage – I prefer turkey sausage for a healthier option, but any kind works beautifully. The key is to cook it until it's nicely browned, releasing all those delicious savory juices. Next, I add the penne pasta, sun-dried tomatoes (for a burst of sweetness and tang), and chicken broth. The broth simmers the pasta perfectly, creating a creamy sauce that coats every strand.
The cream adds a luxurious richness to the dish, while the spinach adds a welcome dose of greens. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end ties it all together. I always adjust the seasonings to my taste, adding a little extra salt and pepper, or sometimes even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. It’s incredibly versatile; I've even been known to throw in some leftover roasted vegetables or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost.
This isn't just a quick weeknight dinner; it's a lifesaver. It's adaptable enough to cater to different dietary needs and preferences. Want to make it vegetarian? Simply swap the sausage for some firm tofu or mushrooms. Feeling adventurous? Try different types of pasta or add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe truly represents my philosophy on cooking: it should be simple, delicious, and stress-free. I prioritize meals that are both nutritious and convenient, enabling me to spend quality time with my family without sacrificing a delicious dinner. And honestly, the best part is the minimal cleanup – one skillet, one happy mama!
Ingredients I always keep on hand:
Because this is such a regular staple in my kitchen, I always ensure I have these key ingredients on hand:
- Italian Sausage: I usually buy turkey sausage for a healthier option.
- Penne Pasta: A pantry essential.
- Chicken Broth: Provides both flavor and moisture.
- Heavy Cream: For that rich and creamy sauce.
- Spinach: Adds a healthy green element.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Offer a delicious tangy flavor.
- Onions and Garlic: The aromatic foundation of so many dishes.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
Here are a few tips to ensure your Skillet Penne and Sausage comes out perfectly every time:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Make sure you have enough space in your skillet for the ingredients to cook evenly. If needed, cook the sausage in batches.
- Use good quality sausage: The flavor of your sausage will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Don't be afraid to experiment with herbs and spices to customize the recipe to your preference.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Follow the package directions for cooking time and check for doneness before adding the spinach.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot.
This Skillet Penne and Sausage is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, delicious cooking. It's a recipe that embraces efficiency without compromising on flavor, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights. So, give it a try and experience the joy of a quick, easy, and utterly satisfying dinner that the whole family will love!
